After ten long years the Grenada High School military science unit once again attained the status of Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. The change in status is due to the hard work of the cadets, friends and family, and Chief Newtroin Foreman.
Outstanding student leadership chosen by Chief Newtroin Foreman played a major role in achieving this long sought-after status. These superior unit commanders began with Cadet La’Jarvas Simpson, the first unit commander chosen by Foreman, who was followed by Portia Fox, Hansen Bennett, Glennesia Frost, Ca’tarrus Black, Lakesha Harbin, Johnathan Forrest, and Mallorie Bowden. The current commander is Kimhong Kangheng, who vows to lead in the impressive tradition of the previous cadet commanders.
The GHS NJROTC unit needs and wants new members! The NJROTC unit of Grenada takes an active role in the community, earning over 4,000 community service hours last year alone. Cadets travel both in and out of state visiting locations like the Naval Air Museum in Pensacola, Florida. Membership on approximately 20 different competition teams is also available to cadets. NJROTC members explore the intriguing world of civilian, industrial, and military science. They discover the rich history of Naval Science and explore scientific aspects of tomorrow’s naval technology. Cadets also study the heritage and development of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, as well as the United States itself.
Leadership is emphasized in the program, and the coursework prepares cadets for positions in any military or civilian career. Classes cover military customs and courtesies, flag etiquette, study habits, time management, and a variety of other subjects that help groom students for the real world.
Membership in NJROTC requires payment of $125 dues. Cadets must wear a uniform once a week; undergo a physical exam, and a physical fitness test. Male and female cadets are also required to submit to U.S. Navy hair regulations. Cadets may choose not to follow uniform and hair regulations, but those cadets may not attend any field trips or meets.
Cadets engage in after school practice depending on what team or teams they have joined. Every Thursday all cadets must attend Annual Military Inspection practice. All of these practices prepare cadets for Regional, State and National meets. Approximately 115 cadets are currently enrolled in the program at this time, but the goal for the year is membership of over 125 cadets.
While increasing membership is a priority of the program, NJROTC also needs the help of volunteers, especially for the Air Rifle and Cyber Patriot teams. Both coaches must be qualified in their volunteer field and cleared by the school to coach. The unit is also in need of new traveling golf cases (at least 4) to transport their drill rifles. Contact Chief Foreman at GHS for more information about coaching either of these teams or if you would like to become a sponsor.
NJROTC is a jointly sponsored Navy and secondary school citizenship and leadership program. It is an education program, and cadets are under no obligation to join any branch of service when they graduate. However, NJROTC membership provides cadets with their eye on a military career a head start. These enlistees enter the military as an E-2 or E-3 depending on the branch of service they choose; a benefit that boosts starting pay. NJROTC teaches self-discipline, self-confidence, and leadership skills to help cadets successfully meet life’s challenges. If you or someone you know are interested in NJROTC membership, contact Chief Newtroin Foreman at Grenada High School for more information.
